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University Expenses
The cost of attending a university is often called the cost of attendance (COA). Understanding the COA is crucial for any student, especially for international student-athletes.
Awareness of all expenses involved in the process can help you plan better and make informed decisions.
In this blog post, we'll dive into the costs of attending university as a student-athlete and what you need to keep in mind.
You often come across the term “Cost of Attendance.” But what does this mean?
Simply put, Cost of Attendance (COA) is the estimated amount of money it'll cost you to go to college for a year. It covers everything from tuition fees to housing and food.
As you can see in the example, the cost of attendance is divided into separate categories:
1. Tuition and Fees
2. Room & Board (Housing and Meals)
3. Indirect costs
Below we explain each category and what to expect.
1. Tuition and Fees
Tuition and fees are usually the highest costs across the categories. They are the primary costs associated with attending university.
They typically include the cost of classroom instruction, academic support services, and access to campus facilities.
It is important to note that there is a distinction in the tuition fees between in-state residents and non-residents. This difference in fees results in a more affordable option for in-state residents compared to international students, making the cost of studying in the USA a significant financial burden for those from abroad.
2. Room and Board
Housing and meals (in America referred to as Room & Board) are also significant expenses to consider when planning for the costs of attending university.
Freshman students are often required to live on campus, and several housing options are available, including dorms and apartments. Each option has its own average costs, which can vary based on the school and location.
Regarding meals, most colleges offer meal plans, which give students the option to eat at the school's cafeteria and restaurants for a certain number of meals per week. This provides a convenient and cost-effective solution for students looking to save money on food expenses. Meal plans also come with different options and costs, so it's important to research what's available and choose the best fit for your budget and needs.
3. Indirect Costs
Apart from tuition, fees, and room & board, students can also expect other ‘indirect’ or ‘miscellaneous’ costs. These may include:
• Health Insurance
Health insurance is a mandatory requirement for international students studying in the USA. Health insurance costs vary, but it is important to consider when budgeting for your studies. It is necessary to have health insurance coverage in case of medical emergencies, as medical expenses in the USA can be quite high.
• Books and supplies
Books and supplies are additional expenses that should not be overlooked when considering university costs. This includes required textbooks, course materials, and equipment necessary for your classes. The cost of books and supplies can vary greatly depending on the major and courses, but it is estimated to average between $1,000 to $1,500 per year.
• Pocket money & flights
Setting aside money to spend outside of university and travel to university is also important. These costs can vary greatly depending on individual needs and lifestyle choices.
In conclusion, the cost of attendance is an important aspect to consider when planning for your university education as a student-athlete.
From tuition fees to housing, meals, and other miscellaneous expenses, it's crucial to clearly understand the total cost to avoid any unexpected financial burden.
At +31 Sports, we can help you understand the costs of university. If you receive a scholarship offer and are not sure what is covered, reach out to us!
